Glossary

A glossary of Vintage Volkswagen related terms.

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• 11 Window - The standard model of pre-1968 Type 2 Bus. Named for the eleven panels of glass installed in these models, which include three side windows behind the rear doors.
• 13 Window - "Deluxe" trim model Type 2 Bus produced from 1964-1967. In addition to the standard 11 windows, two side windows were added to the rear of the vehicle.
• 15 Window - "Deluxe" trim model Type 2 Bus produced prior to the 1964 model year. In addition to the standard 11 windows, two side windows were added to the rear if the vehicle, as well as two curved windows in the rear corners.
• 21 Window - Top-of-the-line "Samba" model Type 2 Bus produced from 1964-1967. VW took the 13-window Deluxe model and added eight skylight windows (4 per side) along the roof edge.
• 23 Window - Top-of-the-line "Samba" model Type 2 Bus produced prior to the 1964 model year. VW took the 15-window Deluxe model and added eight skylight windows (4 per side) along the roof edge.

A

• Air-cooled - The primary method of engine cooling used on early Volkswagen and Porsche models. Air is propelled by a fan over the cylinders and cylinder heads which feature fins to maximize surface area, dissipating heat and reducing the operating temperature of the engine.

B

• Barndoor - Type 2 produced prior to the end of February, 1955. Name derived from the large decklid.
• Bay Window - Term for the 1968-1979 Type 2. Name is derived from the large front windshield which replaced the split panel windshield of earlier models.

C

• Cabriolet - Alternate word for convertible. Often used to describe Beetle, Karmann Ghia and Golf with a retractable roof. Derived from the name of a lightweight horse-drawn carriage with a folding top.
• Campmobile - Official name of Type 2 camper conversions produced by Westfalia.

D

• Decklid - Rear engine cover on air-cooled models.

E

• Eberspächer - Manufacturer of gasoline powered heaters commonly offered as a factory option in air-cooled models.

F

• Fweem - The distinctive chirping sound of an air-cooled exhaust.

G

• Gas Heater - Supplemental gasoline-powered heater option installed at the factory or dealership. Eberspächer was the most common manufacturer, but models from Stewart Warner (Southwind) and Perfection were also available.

H

• Heater boxes - Heat exchanger units which utilize waste heat from engine exhaust to provide warm air to the passenger compartment.

I

• IRS - Independent rear suspension - Rear suspension design featuring two CV joints per axle in which the left and right axles move independently of one another. Installed on 1969 and later Type 1 and Type 2.

M

• M-Code - A numerical code denoting installed factory options or standard export equipment.
• M-Code plate - Identification plate on 1958 and later Type 2 models. Indicates factory options and manufacturing data.

W

• Westy - Slang term for Westfalia.